Matariki ki Taupō (Matariki in Taupō)

Darren Petry from Taupō District Council

Celebrate Matariki in Taupō district at Whakanuia! An intimate evening of kapa haka and performing arts featuring Ngā Taikura ō Tūwharetoa and special guest Whirimako Black performing this Sunday, July 11.

Event coordinator Piata Winitana-Murray said the event is supported by Taupō District Council to offer local Matariki celebrations.

“It’s great to be able to host Ngā Taikura ō Tūwharetoa, the local kaumatua kapa haka group. They usually perform annually at Te Papa in Wellington as part of a nation-wide Matariki celebration but this year they’re performing in their hometown – so the community can enjoy and celebrate the beauty and energy of our kaumatua at home during Matariki.

“Also performing is one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive soul and jazz artist, Whirimako Black,” said Ms Winitana-Murray.

Whirimako Black has been awarded Best Māori Album, Best Jazz Album, a Silver Scroll for Best Māori Composition, and in 2006 was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori music. Whirimako’s career spans eight albums across te reo Māori and English, recording everything from covers of jazz standards, U2 and Stevie Wonder to Ngāi Tūhoe waiata and her own compositions, all in her signature, velvety smooth style.

Local kapa haka group Te Ahi Tipua, female performing art group Tupono Collective, and Matariki kōrero and Kaupapa will kick-off the afternoon’s entertainment.

Sunday, July 11
3 to 6pm
Great Lake Centre

Tickets cost $5 and are available at trybooking.com/nz/HSX